Cardiac arrhythmia refers to abnormal heart rhythms that increase the risk of heart failure, stroke, and sudden cardiac death.
Ventricular fibrillation (VF) is a fatal cardiac arrhythmia that occurs when the heart’s electrical activity becomes disorganised and chaotic, leading to ineffective pumping of blood into the body. Another type of arrhythmia, atrial fibrillation (AF), is the most common type of cardiac arrhythmia that affects millions of people. Unlike VF, AF is non-life-threatening but can lead to severe complications if left untreated.
This article discusses cardiac arrhythmia, VF, and its fatal consequences.
Atrial Fibrillation (AF)
AF is a type of arrhythmia that affects the upper chambers of the heart (atria). It is characterised by rapid and irregular heartbeats that disrupt the normal flow of blood from the heart.
AF is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Common symptoms of AF include palpitations, shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain. In some cases, patients may not experience any symptoms.
Risk factors for AF
The following are some of the risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing AF:.
- Age: AF is more common among older people
- High blood pressure
- Cardiovascular disease
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Previous heart surgery or heart attack
- Family history of AF
Treatment of AF
The treatment of AF aims to control the heart rate and rhythm, reduce complications, and lower the risk of stroke. The following are some of the treatment options for AF:.
- Medications: Anti-arrhythmic drugs can help regulate the heartbeat. Blood thinners are prescribed to reduce the risk of stroke.
- Cardioversion: This procedure uses electrical shocks to reset the heart to a normal rhythm.
- Ablation: This procedure destroys the tissue that causes AF in the heart.
- Pacemaker: A pacemaker is implanted in the chest to control the heart rate.
Ventricular Fibrillation (VF)
VF is a life-threatening arrhythmia that occurs when the heart’s electrical activity becomes disorganised and chaotic, leading to ineffective pumping of blood into the body.
VF can cause sudden cardiac arrest, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.
Risk factors for VF
The following are some of the risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing VF:.
- Cardiovascular disease
- Previous heart attack or heart failure
- Family history of arrhythmia or sudden cardiac death
- Drug or alcohol abuse
- Electrolyte imbalances
Symptoms of VF
The symptoms of VF include:.
- Sudden loss of consciousness
- No pulse or breathing
- Unresponsiveness
Treatment of VF
Treatment for VF aims to restore the heart’s normal rhythm and oxygen supply. The following are some of the treatment options for VF:.
- CPR: Cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is performed to keep the blood flowing until medical attention arrives.
- Defibrillation: This procedure uses an electrical shock to reset the heart to a normal rhythm.
- Medications: Drugs such as epinephrine and amiodarone are administered to restore the heart’s normal rhythm.
- Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD): An ICD is implanted in the chest to monitor the heart’s rhythm and deliver electrical shocks if necessary.
Conclusion
Cardiac arrhythmia is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While AF is a non-life-threatening arrhythmia, it can cause severe complications if left untreated.
On the other hand, VF is a life-threatening arrhythmia that requires immediate medical attention. Knowing the risk factors and symptoms of cardiac arrhythmia can help detect and treat the condition early, preventing fatal consequences.